I am not one for doing “touristy” stuff. I almost take pride in the fact I’ve never been to the Empire State Building. I certainly would never ever set foot on one of those Hop On Hop Off bus tours. Yet, lo and behold, I found myself at a christening ceremony for two new sightseeing ships, part of Circle Line Sightseeing Cruises – Circle Line Bronx and Circle Line Staten Island.

Oh and Brooke Shields was there too. I mean if it’s good enough for her it, should be good enough for me. It was.

Credit: Alex Chester

I don’t know about you, but I think being the person to christen a boat looks like fun. Brooke Shields (official Godmother of the new vessel) had the honor of breaking a bottle of champagne on “Circle Line Bronx.” She literally took the bottle and whacked it hard on the side of the ship. To quote Ms. Shields as fine alcohol and glass dripped into the river, “I got a champagne bath.”

Credit: Alex Chester

Next up, special guest Laysha De Los Santos of New Heights Youth had a turn at bashing a bottle of champagne on the Staten Island. It really does look like a lot of fun!

After the christening ceremonies, all were invited to enjoy s casual lunch aboard Hudson’s at Pier 81.

Credit: Alex Chester

Nothing like a glass of champagne at 11:30am. I mean it’s 4pm somewhere, right?

Finally, after eating and drinking our fill, we went aboard the Circle Line Bronx for its inaugural voyage to the Statue of Liberty and back.

Credit: Alex Chester

Inside the boat, it was very spacious and comfortable. These new ships offer huge windows, clean bathrooms, multiple bar and food options and even a third deck.

The outdoor deck offered unparalleled vistas of the New York and New Jersey skylines. Over the course of the hour-long excursion, a well-meaning aspiring actor offered narration and fun facts.

Credit: Alex Chester

It was really awesome getting to see Ellis Island and the Statue of Liberty from the Bronx. 100 years later, I got to view the same thing as my great-grandmother did when she first arrived in the U.S. via way of Ellis Island.

Credit: Alex Chester

For more info on Circle Line Sightseeing Cruises please visit their website.